Lestonnac to close in May

Rosa Delia Quintana, director for Lestonnac Preschool on 10th Street, informed the parents of her 35 students last week the school will be closing at the end of this school year.

“For several generations we, the Sisters of the Company of Mary, have had the privilege of educating many of the pre-school and kindergarten children in Douglas at Lestonnac Pre-school and Kinder, a press release given to the Douglas Dispatch said. “About eight years ago we had to leave Douglas due to personal and ministry needs in California. At that time Mrs. Rosa Delia Quintana was entrusted with the running of the facility. We wish to acknowledge and express our gratitude to her and the other teachers and aides during these past years for their generous dedication to this mission.”

The press release goes on to state that demographic changes and other educational resources within the city have impacted overall enrollment thus bringing about the closure.

“(This) is a painful decision given that Douglas holds a special place in the history of our province,” the release states. “Our sisters first came to Douglas in 1926 and opened the first convent of our community in the United States. We wish to stress that it has been our privilege to have served the people of Douglas throughout these many years and we wish to thank you most heartedly for entrusting the formation of your children to us.

“The closing of the school is not a termination of our relationship with the people of Douglas. We look forward to collaborating periodically in the ministry of the School Sisters of Notre Dame who live in our convent. God willing, we can continue with some contact.”

Quintana who has been at the school 32 years said she’s going to miss the children.

Kindergarten was dropped from the school several years ago and now the school, which employees six people, teaches kids ages 3, 4 and 5.

Sister Ernestine Velarde of the Sisters of the Company of Mary said from her office in California, enrollment has declined over the years and there was consideration of raising tuition but that would not adequately meet the needs.

“The funds have been exhausted,” she said.

The school is inviting its former students, their families and friends to a celebration of Thanksgiving on May 11, 2013.

Further details about that event will be forthcoming.